Distemper in cats or panleukopenia: what it is and how it is treated

It is very important to be aware of this serious feline disease, which is quite contagious and can be fatal. In this article we will tell you what you should know about distemper in cats or panleukopenia.

What is distemper in cats?

Panleukopenia is a disease that is transmitted by a virus that may be in the environment . This means that all cats are exposed to it. However, whether or not they are infected with the disease will depend exclusively on whether they have been vaccinated.

The animal's immune system will also have a lot to do, because if it is weak, microorganisms can enter. and develop more easily in the body.

The distemper virus enters the animal through contact with fluids, nasal secretions, blood or feces of a sick cat. Once inside your body, it will attack the cells and not allow them to divide and develop.

Panleukopenia affects both the nervous system and the digestive system, and sometimes the bone marrow. , so it severely compromises the animal's health. In severe cases and without treatment causes death.

Distemper in cats: symptoms

What are the symptoms of distemper in cats?

One of the problems with this disease is that the initial symptoms can be confused with other diseases or conditions , such as an infection or food poisoning.

During the first days after the virus spreads, the cat may suffer from a lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, runny nose, apathy and reluctance. Also, since you do not want to drink water, you are likely to show signs of dehydration.

You need to pay close attention to how your pet acts and, in the slightest doubt, take it to the veterinarian. If the virus continues to advance, the animal may manifest convulsions or changes in its behavior , such as biting in different parts of the body (like the tail).

Is there treatment for distemper in cats?

As a first step, we should indicate that distemper in cats is prevented in a very simple way: with vaccination. It will not matter if the animal goes out, or if it has contact with other pets, because it is essential that it is inoculated against the virus.

Panleukopenia is more frequent in cats less than five months old, that is, when they have not yet been vaccinated.In this way, the risk of contagion with the rest will be less.

As they say, the best remedy in these cases is prevention. As soon as a kitten arrives home, you should take him to the vet to give him the vaccines that are necessary. This simple act can mean the salvation of your pet.

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